Overview & Reviews

Before Saturn was forced to call it a career after the 2009 GM bankruptcy affair, the Saturn Vue was one of the company's more endearing products. The Vue debuted in 2002 as GM's first home-grown entry in the car-based small-SUV segment, it recorded solid sales but not much critical acclaim. To compensate for the latter, Saturn made steady improvements and expanded the Vue's model lineup with the high-performance Red Line and hybrid Green Line variants. Though still not as polished as other top compact SUVs, the first-generation Vue remained attractive because of its low price and Saturn's famed no-hassle buying experience.

Introduced for 2008, the second-generation Saturn Vue improved upon the original's formula in many areas. This Vue shared much of its basic structure with the Antara, a small SUV produced by Opel, GM's Germany-based European division. While we usually roll our eyes at so-called badge engineering, this was one instance where we were flag-waving fans. The second-generation Vue was a remarkable improvement over its forebear, looking and feeling like a European-designed car that just happened to have Saturn badges.

However, Saturn's departure from the scene changes our view of the Vue. Given the first-generation Vue's spotty reliability record and the second-generation's European parts sourcing, we'd advise steering clear of used Vues unless you find an outstanding deal that leaves room for expected maintenance costs.

Most Recent Saturn Vue

The second-generation Saturn Vue was produced from 2008-'09. Compared to the earlier Vue, it was very similar in size, with a nearly identical wheelbase and marginally greater width and height. However, its exterior was constructed of steel body panels. Although the old Vue's plastic ones prevented unsightly dings, they also looked cheap and created huge panel gaps. The second-generation Vue's interior was also higher in quality with improved ergonomics.

The five-passenger compact Vue crossover was available in three trim levels: base XE, midgrade XR and sporty Red Line. A 2.4-liter inline-4 that produced 164 horsepower and 160 pound-feet of torque was standard on the XE and for '09, on the XR. It was connected to a four-speed automatic. An optional 3.5-liter V6 was available on the XE, and it sent 215 hp and 220 lb-ft through a six-speed automatic. A 3.6-liter V6 (also matched to a six-speed auto) that generated 257 hp and 248 lb-ft was standard on the XR for '08 and optional for '09. The Red Line was available only with the 3.6-liter V6. A manual-shift feature for the automatic transmission was standard on the Red Line and optional on the XR. Front- or all-wheel drive was available on each trim.

When compared to other compact SUVs, the Vue was on the small side, with only 56 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, almost 20 cubes less than some of its key competitors. Passenger space was good, however, with a reclining rear seat that offered decent legroom. Front seat comfort was good as well, although some found the bottom cushions a little short and the seats in general lacking lateral and lumbar support.

In reviews of the front-drive Saturn Vue XR, we found it to be a real competitor in the rapidly expanding compact-SUV market. Although others offered more space or a more entertaining driving experience, the Vue made up for it with European-inspired styling, a well-built and attractive cabin, composed handling and respectably strong engine choices.

Past Saturn Vue Models

The first-generation Saturn Vue was produced from 2002-'07 with plastic body panels (the second-generation has steel) and no specific trim levels. Though this Vue's interior was always second-rate, it was notably improved for the 2006 model year; models built previously were even more deficient in terms of interior materials quality and ergonomics. One should also note that Saturn offered a continuously variable transmission (CVT) from the 2002-'05 model years. Fitted to the 143-hp 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine, the CVT provided improved fuel mileage compared to the five-speed automatic. But long-term reliability was apparently an issue and Saturn discontinued it. It was replaced by a five-speed automatic as the optional transmission, while a five-speed manual remained standard equipment.

Finally, Vues built through the 2004 model year had a 181-hp, 3.0-liter V6 instead of the later Honda-engineered 3.5-liter V6 that was more refined and powerful with 250 hp. With this bigger engine came a few more features, including the option of all-wheel drive and the "Red Line" performance package.

In reviews, the first-generation Saturn Vue earned favorable commentary for its strong 3.5-liter V6 engine, roomy cabin, comfortable ride and dent-resistant plastic body panels. Noted downsides included below-average build quality, low-grade interior materials, vague steering and weak performance from the base four-cylinder engine.

User Reviews:

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  Love my Vue - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By enduraca - August 15 - 10:43 am

  Awesome Power and Comfort

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  Saturn wins Clunker Lottery - 2009 Saturn VUE
  By New Saturn Owner - August 15 - 2:03 am

  Forced to trade in my 99 Durango Cash4Clunkers after getting rear-ended and getting more damage than Ol Reliable was worth. After shopping ALL crossovers except for the Mazdas (ran out of time and the dealers were running out of inventory), I settled on V6 Saturn Vue FWD. 2000 miles into it, Ive found: 1) It is very attractive on outside; 2) Very attractive on inside 3) Plenty of power in a small ride 3) Plenty of cargo and room for 5. 4) Transmission timing seems rought in 2nd gear 5) Gas mileage is not that great. Around 20-22 MPG, mix town/hiway. 6) Remain convinced that I got the best deal on wheels at the time. All in for about $22,600 after clunker and dealer cash.

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  Another great Saturn! - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By TCKG - August 15 - 2:00 am

  This is our 3rd Saturn and as with each one we have yet to be disappointed in any aspect, performance, quality, reliability, etc... The VUE handles very well even in the worst winter weather. Its fun to drive!!! Its roominess and comfort make for pleasant road trips.

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  Conditional Love - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By KCAT - August 10 - 9:03 pm

  Fun car to drive and mostly comfortable. Cat loves riding on the heated seats. Have had some maintenance problems...hood release cable became twisted and snapped, power steering fluid leak, On-Star battery died, and now emission system light is going on...probably the gas tank cover needs replacing. Saturn dealership very good about fixing items covered by warranty. GM messed up in dropping Saturn. This vehicle model has real potential to outsell all other Crossovers if they would improve on its parts quality. Its just the right size, with excellent pick up and a lot of fun to drive. Someone should buy Saturn just to improve this model and keep it in production.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By donsand - August 10 - 2:00 am

  My first Saturn was a 1995 brand new SL and I go great gas milage. Traded in for a new 1997 SL2 and traded that in for a 2001 L200. Just got the new V^ Vue and like the other cars it rides great and I havent had a lick of trouble with it. WOW what power with the 3.5 V6 250 horse power!

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  Happy with the VUE - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Tall Paul - August 8 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my VUE for a little over a month now and Im very happy with it. The ride on the highway took some getting used to with the electric motor power steering but its now second nature. A very solid feel at slow and fast speeds. A commanding sense of comfort and safety.

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  Awesome ride! - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Emily - August 7 - 9:20 pm

  I bought this car two years ago. I traded in my 2001 SL1 for it...and I love it! I have had no problems with it. Its fun and easy to drive. You get the handling of a car with the space of a small SUV. If you drive responsibly (ie: not pounding on the gas and slamming on the brakes) this vehicle get wonderful gas mileage. On a long highway trip Ive averaged 32+ MPG. Although there is a bit of wind noise on the passengers side in the front when the wind is whipping, its nothing Im bothered by. I love this vehicle and hope it lasts me a long time!

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  Love it, Love it, Love it! - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By CCline - August 6 - 3:40 am

  I purchased my Vue 3 weeks ago. It drives and shifts smoothly and quietly. It has features that you usually find in luxury models. The styling and aerodynamics are very appealing and is a real head turner. The interior is spacious and comfortable with plenty of leg and headroom. Road and engine noise are at a minimum. Gas mileage is as expected.

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  WOW - 2009 Saturn VUE
  By KC - August 6 - 2:36 am

  I was ready to purchase an SUV, looking for just the right fit. After testing out 3 other versions of the compact SUVs I found what I wanted. The 4 cyl has plenty of power and so far after 2 weeks, the mileage is fine. Averaging 22 MPG even with a heavy foot. With this model and features I didnt have to settle, I got what I wanted and enjoy the XM radio, & OnStar features.

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  Deeply Disappointed - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By distressed - August 4 - 10:00 am

  This was my third Saturn, and I planned to keep it for 6+ years. So far its been in the shop 14 times, replaced 2 wheel bearings, power control module in the on-board computer, clutch cable, rear window wiper motor, lubricated steering wheel 5 times for noise, and repaired AC which was installed incorrectly. I had the throttle cable stick open on an on ramp, almost causing a 5 car collision. I also had to "reboot" my car by turning it off and then on again when the computer malfunctioned in cold weather. Im trading it in, so buyer beware!!!